Sainte-Réparate Cathedral

Sainte-Reparate Cathedral

A contemplative stop on the Nice audio-guided tour, Sainte-Reparate Cathedral stands on Place Rossetti, with an Italian air thanks to its ochre facades, flowery balconies and cafe terraces. Its patron saint, Saint Reparata, is also that of Florence.

The legend of Saint Reparata

Legend has it that the saint was a young girl from Caesarea, in Palestine, who died in the third century, persecuted by the Romans. Her body is said to have been placed in a boat drawn by angels to Nice, hence the expression the Bay of Angels. In the eleventh century, a chapel was built at the foot of the castle to house her relics, becoming a church and then a cathedral in 1590.

What to see

With the growth of the population, the building was enlarged, taking on the scale of a Baroque cathedral. Its richly decorated interior and its dome of glazed tiles make it a jewel of Nice. Enter this place of worship with quiet and respect for silence.

Practical information

Sainte-Reparate Cathedral is on Place Rossetti, in the heart of old Nice. Like any active place of worship, it is visited with respect for silence and services; hours should be checked depending on the season.

Who is Saint Reparata ?

A young third-century martyr whose body, according to legend, was brought to Nice by angels, hence the Bay of Angels.

When did the church become a cathedral ?

In 1590, after being a chapel and then a church housing the relics of Saint Reparata.